Describe the importance of labeling on a graph, and briefly discuss the kinds of labels that should be included on graphs.
Select each of the following that describes a label that should be included in graphs and the importance of including it.
A.
Numbers along the vertical axis should clearly indicate the scale, and there should be a label that describes the variable shown on the vertical axis. Without either of these, there would be no way of interpreting the data shown in the graph.
B.
The categories should be clearly indicated along the horizontal axis, and there should be a label that describes the variable that the categories represent. Without either of these, it would not be possible to know what data the graph is supposed to show.
C.
If multiple data sets are displayed on a single graph, there should be a legend or key to identify the individual data sets. Otherwise, comparisons among the data sets would not be possible and confusion among the data sets could occur.
D.
There should be an indication of when the graph was made. Data can never be properly interpreted without knowing when the data were obtained.
E.
The graph should have a title or caption (or both) that explains what is being shown and, if applicable, lists the source of the data. Without this label, it might not be clear what the graph is supposed to illustrate.